Tributes to a much lovedBattle restaurant owner

Anthony and his wife Ruth ran the Gateway restaurant at Battle High Street, opposite the Abbey Green for a decade between 1989 and 1999.

Ruth spoke of how the couple fell in love with Battle while on a trip from Woking years ago.

She said: “As soon as I saw Battle I thought - I want to live here.

“We opened the restaurant and loved every minute of being in Battle.”

The Gateway soon built up a loyal following of customers who loved its friendly atmosphere and good home cooking. Anthony was a big part of that.

Ruth said: “Anthony used to work front of house and would greet customers.

“He loved dressing up for the late night Christmas opening event.”

The restaurant often won prized in Battle in Bloom for its flower basket displays.

Anthony served in the Royal Artillery and saw action in France and Belgium during the Second World War.

He was a keen golfer and a member of Sedlescombe Golf Club.

Anthony played an active part in the life of the town and was a member of the Chamber of Commerce as well as the Royal British Legion.

The couple retired to St Leonards.

Ruth Reeve said: “People really missed the restaurant when it closed.”

It re-opened in 2006 as a coffee shop run by Jempsons.

Anthony’s funeral takes place on Monday September 22 at Hastings Crematorium at 2.45pm. It is an open funeral and everyone is welcome to attend says the family.